Advertising is a common topic in the IELTS Speaking test. While you may have seen questions asking you to describe an advertisement you like, it is equally possible to get the opposite version of the question, such as: “Describe an advertisement you don't like.”
In this article, IDP will guide you through how to structure your response to this cue card, provide useful vocabulary and expressions to help you score higher, and share sample answers for better preparation and idea generation.
1. IELTS Cue Card Analysis: “Describe an Advertisement You Don't Like” (Part 2)
In IELTS Speaking Part 2, you have 1 minute to prepare and 2 minutes to speak. You will be given paper and pencil to note down key points.
Cue Card: Describe an advertisement you do not like You should say:
Where and when you saw it
What the advertisement was for
What you could see in the advertisement
And explain why you did not like the advertisement
2. Suggested Outline for “Describe an Advertisement You Don't Like”
Once you understand the question, organize your ideas clearly. Below is a suggested outline with ideas and high-scoring vocabulary:
Type of ad:
These days, there are countless ads on Facebook or YouTube claiming to cure everything instantly.
Where and when you saw it:
I came across this ad while scrolling through my social media feed during my work break.
Why you did not like it:
To me, these ads are just snake oil trying to trick people into wasting money.
I can't stand how these ads are overly direct or even offensive.
3. Sample Answer – IELTS Speaking Part 2
Cue card: Describe an advertisement you don't like
Sample answer:
So, I want to talk about this advertisement that really annoys me. It’s for an energy drink that claims to boost your energy and help you stay focused. Honestly, every time I see the ad, I just want to skip or change the channel.
The commercial starts with a guy who looks like he’s about to fall asleep at his desk, buried in paperwork and visibly stressed. Then he drinks the energy drink, and suddenly he’s full of energy and extremely productive. Everyone around him is amazed and praises him for his performance.
What bothers me most is how unrealistic the whole thing is. I’ve tried energy drinks before, and they don’t magically turn you into a superhero. The ad sets a false expectation that you can succeed without any real effort.
Also, the commercial just feels very fake. The actors are overacting, always smiling in an exaggerated way, trying to convince you that this drink is life-changing. But I’m not buying it.
In conclusion, I find this ad misleading and annoying. It promotes a product using false promises and over-the-top messaging. I believe advertisers should be more honest and upfront about what their products can realistically do.
High-scoring vocabulary:
give you a boost of energy
on the verge of falling asleep
stressed out
super energetic and productive
unrealistic
false expectation
exaggerated
not buying it
based on false promises
honest and upfront
4. Sample Questions & Answers – IELTS Speaking Part 3
IELTS Speaking Part 3 includes a two-way conversation with the examiner. These questions expand on the Part 2 topic and test your ability to think critically.
Q: Which is more effective, newspaper advertising or online advertising?
It’s hard to say which one is more effective because both have their own strengths. Newspaper ads can be more trusted and reach local audiences, while online advertising is more targeted and can reach a global audience. Ultimately, the effectiveness depends on the advertiser's goals and the behavior of the target audience.
Vocabulary:
effective
trusted
demographic
target audience
Q: What do you think of celebrity endorsements in advertising?
Celebrity endorsements can be a powerful tool. Brands often use celebrities to enhance their reputation and attract customers. However, their success depends on how relevant and credible the celebrity is to the brand. While such ads can generate buzz, some people are skeptical, viewing them as insincere or manipulative.
Vocabulary:
celebrity endorsements
reputation and credibility
strategically and thoughtfully
be skeptical of
insincere or manipulative
Q: What role does social media play in advertising?
Social media has become a critical platform for advertising. Its wide reach and ability to target specific audiences make it a highly effective channel. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow advertisers to create targeted campaigns based on age, interests, and location. Its interactive and shareable nature also helps boost brand awareness and drive conversions.
Vocabulary:
advertising capabilities
specific audiences
factors
interactive and shareable nature
driving conversions
5. Topic Vocabulary – Describe an Advertisement You Don’t Like
Vocabulary | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
Brand awareness | How well a brand is recognized | Advertising helps build brand awareness. |
Telemarketing | Selling over the phone | Telemarketing is common in India. |
Click-through rate | Ad click rate | A high click-through rate means better performance. |
Potential customers | Prospective buyers | Free gifts attract potential customers. |
Advertising strategy | Promotional plan | A good strategy guides effective ads. |
Market segment | Target group in a market | Women’s tennis dominates its market segment. |
Brand loyalty | Customer attachment to a brand | Brand loyalty is key to long-term sales. |
Master the Topic “Describe an Advertisement You Don’t Like” with IDP
We hope these ideas, sample answers, and vocabulary help you confidently tackle the IELTS Speaking topic “Describe an advertisement you don't like.” You can also review the IELTS Speaking band descriptors to understand what examiners expect in each scoring category.
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